STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – Michael T. Burmeister, 62, of Great Kills, a sweet and cheerful retired bus driver who enjoyed playing Santa for children in hospitals, died June 12 in Staten Island University Hospital, Ocean Breeze.

Born in Pleasant Plains, Mr. Burmeister had also lived in Tottenville before moving to Great Kills three years ago.

A Staten Island driver for the MTA for 15 years, Mr. Burmeister retired about three years ago.

Through the years, he owned several antique trucks and enjoyed restoring them and driving them around the Island.

A big, jolly guy, he played Santa for the MTA, visiting hospitals; and was also Santa at many Toys for Tots events. His beard, a natural white in recent years, combined with his personality, made him a perfect Santa, family said.

He was a kind and gentle man who loved his grandchildren,'' said his son, Michael.

Mr. Burmeister served in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Jason from 1970 to 1972. He earned the National Defense Service Medal for marksmanship.

In addition to his son, Michael, he is survived by a daughter, Barbara O'Neil, and four grandchildren.

The funeral will be Saturday at 6 p.m. in the Bedell-Pizzo Funeral Home, Tottenville. Arrangements included cremation.

Glenn Stevenson

I would like to offer my condolences to Mike's family. Mike was the Santa Claus for our Christmas Kids Against Cancer toy drive for many years. We are very thankful for all his help and sorry for your loss.